So Cal GGG 2018

Nice!

What’s the water situation? Should we aim to bring a certain amount?

Since Doug Ide can’t make it, I’ll be there in his stead — to look out for his positive public profile since mine is kaput.

Nick-great you can make it.  I must have missed something–hard to imagine your renowned and revered reputation being kaput.

About the water.  I’m thinking I’ll have 15 gallons hauled in.  There are 11 highly likely shows, 5 maybes and the inevitable couple of surprise shows.  Unless you’re a real guzzler you should be Ok hiking in with 2 liters. Then again, if you’re concerned, bring more and consider it training.

I was up at the trailhead last night to confirm that the pedestrian gate is open/removed.  It is, so it anyone is coming after hours (Miner) you won’t have to climb the fence.

With the current temp prediction I think night hiking is a great idea.  I have to meet the ranger at about 3:30 on Friday to load up the water.  I should arrive in camp by 5pm.

What time are you headed up Nick?

Haven’t decided. Probably early to beat the “heat.” But am open for anything. Let me know.

It’s been a long week. Driving six hours tomorrow doesn’t appeal but maybe I’ll change my mind in the morning. I think it’s unlikely I’ll make the trip. Have fun!

I can’t get out until later (working 6-3 on Friday) but I’ll probably up there for dinner.  I plan on biking up later afternoon to save time.  It’s going to be hot…not Palm Springs hot, but hot.

See you in the evening.  Looking forward to catching up.

We are headed up Saturday morning.  We’ll hit the trailhead mid morning after driving up from Carlsbad.

Any parking or route recommendations, or are there any choices to make in this regard?

Probably the easiest and possibly quickest route would be the 5 to the 57 to the 210 and exit at Altadena Drive in Pasadena. Head north on Altadena Dr., turn right on Crescent Dr. and right on Pinecrest Dr. The trailhead address is 2260 Pinecrest Dr.  If you continue driving on Pinecrest past the trailhead to Bowring Dr. you’ll find overnight parking.  The no overnight parking areas are clearly signed.  Where there are no signs you can park overnight.  Map to campground link  http://tinyurl.com/ll5eagl

There is limited cell phone reception.  If you get lost try calling/texting me at 626 485-4696.

See you on Sat.

Perfect.  Thanks!

Great time this weekend.  Thanks all for the hospitality and sage wisdom, and those ultralight goodies.  I like those spread out your gear on the picnic table and take notes moments.  I also have a few more ideas for backpacking spots around SoCal.

We almost ran over a snake on Sunday as we got near the bottom of the hill.  No rattles, but it startled us nonetheless.

Thanks again,

Bob and Matt

Thanks to all who showed up.  It was great to catch up with those I usually only see once a year and to make some new friends.  It was hot, but better than the “hypothermanic” conditions last year.

Ill post some pictures later.

Again, if anyone wants to be added to the email list for notifications about this event please PM me with your email address.

<p style=”text-align: left;”>Thanks everyone for the friendliness and for the great backpacking conversations.</p>
Ass-Blaster = Peri Bottle?

Medline Cleansing Bottle, 8oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0055QO4TW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mC-8AbJQNYBVR

If all else fails try Amazon.  Lance had one of these at the GGG and during the inevitable discussion about pooping in the woods he was lamenting the fact he couldn’t find a source for them.  They’re great for sending a high pressure multi-stream flow of water to rinse ones netherparts.

Go light. Dump the toilet paper and clean up the trail!

Thanks Stephen!

<p style=”text-align: left;”> Stephan, Medline is the name on the side of my bottle, which is still in great shape for 4 years use, I suspect there’s 4 more in the bottle as it has no signs of decay. I would need to see the cap to verify, but it’s a good bet that’s the bottle. I am going to order an extra for me today and check it out.</p>
Everyone who showed, great time, nice to meet some new friends aND see some old ones! Thank you for taking the time to do a pack review for me Sunday morning!

I’m disappointed I missed this! I hope you’re doing well Don. I’ve been a little absent from BPL due to work, life and climbing. Looks like it was a good time.

-The Other Don

To “The Other Don” Sorry you couldn’t make it this year.  Put it on your calendar for next year and tag it as High Priority :-).

As promised here are some photos.  We had  hammock hangers to cowboy campers with a variety of sleeping set ups in between.  

I know it is early, but are we going to do this again?

Not to early Steve, thanks for waking me up.   Initial thoughts are for May 3, 4, 5.  There is a new moon on Sat and it’s Cinco de Mayo weekend.  I’ve been thinking about having it at Cooper Canyon trail camp just for a change of pace.

These are just tentative ideas as always. Hopefully others with chime in with their ideas.  When a loose consensus as achieved we can deal with the details.

Hey Don!

I like the Cooper Canyon idea.

Someplace new (for me).  Sounds good!